The Year of the Raptor has dawned upon Hearthstone, ushering in an exhilarating new expansion cycle, a refreshed Core Set, and the resurgence of esports. The first expansion of the year, "Into the Emerald Dream," is poised for an imminent launch, preceded by a captivating special event. Players can also anticipate a stunning new Year of the Raptor board, complete with updated visuals and soundscapes.
This year's Hearthstone Core Set update is a blend of returning favorites, balance adjustments, and exciting new cards. In an effort to enhance gameplay, cards known for their burst damage and other frustrating mechanics have been removed. Stay tuned for more detailed information as the release date approaches.
The competitive scene is back with a vengeance, featuring two Seasonal Championships and a grand World Championship as the pillars of Hearthstone Esports in 2025. In collaboration with Netease Thunderfire, the esports program boasts a prize pool of at least $600,000, aimed at drawing more players into the competitive arena. Further specifics on the tournament format and rules will be disclosed shortly.
On the horizon, a significant update to the Arena mode is slated for Patch 32.2, following the release of "Into the Emerald Dream." While specifics remain a mystery, this update promises to enhance the drafting process and introduce a fresh dynamic to the mode. Patch 32.2 will also include a Battlegrounds Seasonal Update and the "Into the Emerald Dream" Mini-Set, arriving a patch earlier than tradition dictates.
This adjustment in the patch schedule is part of a larger strategy to synchronize development and content cycles more effectively. Despite these changes, the "Into the Emerald Dream" expansion will adhere to its customary structure, encompassing all anticipated updates and events. Following Patch 32.4, the schedule will revert to its regular format starting with Patch 33.0.
Dive into the excitement of the Year of the Raptor by downloading Hearthstone for free today. For more details, be sure to visit the official website.
